Make Healthy Meals

This is a very warming winter soup. Its very substantial and will keep you going through those cold winter months!

1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
1 large parsnip, peeled and cubed
2 carrots, roughly chopped
2 leeks, roughly chopped
1 red onion, quartered
3 bay leaves
4 thyme sprigs
3 rosemary sprigs
cup olive oil
5 cups vegetable stock
Salt and black pepper to taste
Sour cream or low-fat plain yogurt to serve

Preheat the oven to 350F. place the olive oil in a non-stick baking tray and add all the vegetables (including bay leaf, thyme and rosemary). Toss well until vegetables are coated in oil. Spread the vegetables out in a single layer and roast in the hot oven for approximately 50 to 60 minutes, or until tender. Turn vegetables occasionally during roasting.

Remove from oven and discard herbs. Place the remaining vegetables in a large saucepan and pour the stock over the vegetables. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for approximately 10 minutes. Remove soup from heat and let cool down slightly. Transfer to food processor and blend on high until smooth and creamy.

Return the soup to the pan and heat through. Season with salt and pepper and serve garnished with a swirl of sour cream or plain yogurt.